Financial Crime World

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Financial Crime Threats in The Netherlands: A Growing Concern

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A recent report by the Dutch Banking Association has highlighted a comprehensive list of financial crime threats facing The Netherlands, including modern slavery, human exploitation, money laundering, trade-based money laundering, service-based money laundering, and more. The report assesses the current financial crime landscape in the country, identifying 88 potential threats, with 20 selected for further elaboration.

Arms Trafficking: A Growing Concern

One of the most significant threats identified is arms trafficking, which involves the illegal trade and possession of firearms. The Netherlands is a key hub for international trade, including the illegal arms trade, making it an attractive location for traffickers. According to police statistics, more than 6,500 cases of illicit possession and trade in firearms were registered in 2021 alone.

Characteristics of Arms Trafficking

The report highlights several characteristics that make The Netherlands a prime target for arms traffickers:

  • International trade hub: The country’s strategic location and membership in the European Union (EU) make it an attractive location for illegal arms trade.
  • Strategic geographic location: The Netherlands’ proximity to other countries, including Germany, Belgium, and Balkan nations, makes it an entry point for international arms traffickers.
  • Small arms market: The report notes that there is a relatively large offer of recycled firearms and 3D-printed arms on the market.

Modus Operandi

Arms traffickers often operate through parcel packages and road transport, storing weapons in storage boxes. They are typically part of criminal networks or smaller groups of arms dealers. A new trend has emerged, with some traffickers using parcel shipments from abroad, mainly from the United States, ordered through the darknet.

Extent of the Threat

The report estimates that over 230,000 illegal firearms circulated in The Netherlands in 2017, with police statistics showing 4,252 cases of illicit possession and trade in firearms registered in the same year. By 2021, this number had increased to more than 6,500 cases.

Conclusion

Arms trafficking is a significant financial crime threat facing The Netherlands, driven by the country’s strategic location and lack of effective regulation. Law enforcement agencies must work together to combat this growing problem and protect citizens from illegal firearms.

Sources:

  • Global Initiative against Transnational Organised Crime (2023) - Global Organised Crime Index
  • The Netherlands Country Financial Crime Dashboard (2022) – Financial Crime News
  • EU’s priorities for the fight against serious and organised crime for EMPACT 2022-2024 – Europol
  • The Way of the Gun: Firearm trafficking and its impact on violence in The Netherlands (2022) – Universiteit Leiden
  • Nationaal Dreigingsbeeld (2017) – Politie